World-class trout fishing brings excitement and variety for anglers of all skill levels
SMYTH COUNTY, VIRGINIA–APRIL 2023–The mountain streams and clear lakes of Smyth County, Virginia, are known as world-class trout fishing waters. Just off Interstate 81, two hours north of Asheville and less than a day’s drive from most of the east coast, those waters draw a variety of anglers. Some come for the trophy catch. Some come to enjoy bonding time with family or friends. And others just want to get out and explore what fishing in this phenomenal destination is all about.
It’s no wonder that outdoor activities are popular reasons to visit. Smyth County is home to some of the state’s highest peaks and most beautiful and diverse parks and protected lands. Amid this beautiful landscape are waters that hold a variety of sought-after species. While best known among anglers for its trout fishing, Smallmouth bass are abundant here as well, and these fighters offer quite the challenge.
Here are the top spots for getting the most out of a fishing excursion in Smyth County.
For Dedicated Anglers
Some of the area’s best fishing can be found in Grayson Highlands State Park (829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, Virginia 24363; 276-579-7092). Wild Rainbow and Brook Trout abound in the park’s Cabin and Little Wilson Creeks and Quebec and Wilburn Branches. Most areas are shaded and deep pools make the perfect spots to cast a line. Downstream from the park boundary, Wilson Creek is another excellent option, heavily stocked with Rainbows, Browns and Brookies.
Fishing on the North Fork of Holston River is a favorite for dedicated anglers. The ledges and pools found in this small river are home to a bounty of Smallmouth bass. From Saltville downstream this river is a fly fisher’s dream, and one of the best spots in Virginia to hook a three-plus pound Smallmouth. There is also a ramp above town where the river is narrow and easy to wade.
Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area spreads across 25,000 acres of diverse landscape and has numerous opportunities for fishing. Laurel Bed Lake is a 330-acre lake atop Clinch Mountain at 3,600 feet of elevation. Conversely, Big Tumbling Creek is a large, steep gradient stream with numerous small waterfalls and large, deep rocky pools. It has two tributaries, Briar Cove Creek and Laurel Bed Creek where the gradient is more moderate.
Fun for the Whole Family
Hungry Mother State Park (2854 Park Boulevard, Marion, Virginia 24354; 276-781-7400) is one of Virginia’s six original state parks and known for its centerpiece 108-acre Hungry Mother Lake, with its iconic dive tower. But this family vacation spot is great for fishing, too. This is home to Largemouth, Smallmouth and Spotted bass, Crappie, Channel catfish, Walleye and more. Channel catfish, Walleyes and Musky are stocked annually; all other populations are self-sustaining. The peaceful atmosphere and full slate of state park amenities make this a perfect location for a family fishing getaway.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (3714 VA-16, Marion, Virginia 24354; 800-628-7202) covers approximately 200,000 acres and has a host of recreational opportunities for anyone who loves the outdoors. Both trout and lake fishing are options here and there are plenty other outdoor activities for the whole family. The Beartree Recreation Area is a great place to enjoy not only lake fishing but a sandy recreation area, hiking trails and campground.
Guided Trips for Beginners
One great thing about the local fishing experts is that they love to share their waters and their knowledge of the best way to fish them. For those who want to learn fishing techniques, anglers looking to hone their skills or first-time visitors looking for guidance on the best spots to fish, this is an outstanding way to get the most out of a trip.
Appalachian Trail & Angler Outfitters (108 Prescott Avenue, Marion, Virginia 24354; 276-782-5175) and Flying Appalachia (South Fork Road, Marion, Virginia 24354; 803-687-4983) are just two of the experienced guide services in the area. Each offers guided fly-fishing trips for anglers of all ages and skill levels and plan trips on numerous rivers and streams in the area. Half-day, full-day and two-day overnight trips are all a possibility and all the gear is provided.
Float Trips
Another way to learn from locals who’ve grown up fishing these waters and perfecting their craft is to take a guided float trip. These outings are the perfect way to get practical knowledge and techniques for fishing these abundant Virginia waters. Matt Reilly Fly Fishing (434-996-4067) guide Matt Reilly, specializes in float trips for Smallmouth bass and Musky on the New River, and wade trips for wild trout on the mountain streams of the Mount Rogers region. Trips are conducted out of a 15-foot raft and generally cover between five and 10 miles of river. The guides at Holston Valley Angers (276-698-5665) love introducing anglers to their local waters. Guests can bring their own gear or have everything provided. They offer trips on the South Holston River, Watauga River and South Fork Holston River. Trip options include wading, half-day float trips and all-day trips.
Where to Eat
Sur 81 (1050 VA-16, Marion, Virginia 24354; 276-781-1681) Here, breakfast and burritos are a little slice of heaven. Fresh ingredients highlight the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus as well as the daily chalk board specials. Beyond burritos, there are blue plate specials, sandwiches and desserts.
Wooden Pickle Food & Spirits (120 East Main Street, Marion, Virginia 25354; 276-783-2300) Burgers, sandwiches, seafood and an extensive drink menu keep locals and visitors coming back. The comfortable pub atmosphere and eclectic menu combine for memorable meals here.
Riverfront Restaurant (154 East Lee Highway, Chilhowie, Virginia 24319; 276-646-2233) This family-owned restaurant serves lunch and dinner and is a local favorite. The extensive menu features Appalachian specialties and everything from burgers and wraps to steaks and pasta and homemade desserts to top it all off.